Can restaurant air quality affect my health?« Back to Previous Page

I've been feeling really unwell lately, with headaches and a persistent cough, and I'm starting to think it might be linked to the restaurant below my apartment in Jumeirah. I've noticed that the air quality in my living room gets noticeably worse during their peak hours, especially when they’re frying food. It’s been a few weeks, and I can also smell a lot of grease lingering in the hallways. Is there a way to address these health concerns or should I consider talking to a professional?
Posted by Ali Al-Maktoum
Asked on December 7, 2025 12:33 pm
0
Yes, restaurant air quality can significantly affect your health, especially in a bustling city like Dubai where dining establishments can produce high levels of indoor air pollutants. Factors such as cooking fumes, grease accumulation, and inadequate ventilation can contribute to poor air quality, which may lead to respiratory issues, headaches, and other health concerns.

In your case, the consistent headaches and persistent cough you’re experiencing may indeed be linked to the air quality in your apartment, particularly when the restaurant below is operating. Frying food produces volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter that can linger and permeate living spaces, especially if there are gaps in ventilation systems or if the restaurant has not implemented effective odor and fume mitigation strategies.

In Dubai, the Dubai Municipality has regulations in place to ensure that commercial kitchens adhere to specific ventilation and air quality standards. However, compliance can vary greatly between establishments. If you notice a strong smell of grease or a decline in air quality during peak hours, it may indicate that the restaurant is not meeting these standards, which could pose health risks to residents nearby.

To address your health concerns, I recommend the following steps:

1. Document Your Symptoms: Keep a record of when your symptoms occur and their severity. This information can be helpful if you decide to pursue further action.

2. Inspect Your Space: Consider conducting a professional indoor air quality inspection in your apartment. Companies like ours specialize in assessing air quality and can identify pollutants, mold, or other environmental factors contributing to your discomfort.

3. Communicate with the Restaurant Management: If you feel comfortable, discuss your concerns with the restaurant management. They may not be aware of the impact their operations are having on your living space and could take steps to improve ventilation.

4. Consider Air Purification: Investing in a high-quality air purifier can help reduce airborne contaminants in your apartment, especially if it has HEPA filters and activated carbon to address odors.

5. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If your symptoms persist, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional who can provide guidance and may recommend further evaluation.

If you believe the situation warrants professional intervention, do not hesitate to reach out to our team. You can call us at 800-MOLDS or 800-66537, or email hello@saniservice.com for more information on indoor air quality assessments and remediation services. Prioritizing your health is essential, and taking proactive steps can lead to improvements in your living environment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 10, 2025 2:58 am